at first

phrase

: at the beginning : initially

Examples of at first in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

His family reportedly had reservations about his relationship with Holmes at first. — Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026

Yoan Marciano says that after his initial love at first sight with Madrid, his Spanish friends—many of whom were guests at the Paris location—encouraged him to open a Hôtel du Temps in the city. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Oct. 2026

The ThermNeck & Upper Back & Upper Back is a cordless, wearable massager that, at first, looks similar to competitive models but quickly stands out thanks to advanced kneading and percussive massage that targets stiff, swollen muscles. — ABC News, 20 Oct. 2026

Patients will have to drive the shift themselves, at least at first. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 19 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for at first

• accursed
• amerced
• cloudburst
• coerced
• conversed
• disbursed
• dispersed
• headfirst
• immersed
• outburst
• rehearsed
• reversed